Overweight women who incorporated green tea extract (GTE) alongside an exercise program saw greater weight loss and improved metabolic markers compared to those who exercised alone, according to a new study.
Researchers investigated the potential combined effects of GTE and exercise on weight loss and inflammation in inactive overweight women. The study involved thirty participants who were divided into three groups:
- Endurance training with a placebo (ET + P)
- Endurance training with GTE (ET + GTE)
- Control group with no exercise and a placebo (Control)
The endurance training program consisted of three sessions per week for eight weeks, incorporating activities like aerobics, circuit training, and moderate-intensity walking or jogging. Participants in the ET + GTE group additionally received a daily 500mg dose of green tea extract in capsule form.
Significant Weight Loss and Improved Body Composition
The study found significant reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, and body fat percentage in both the ET + P and ET + GTE groups. However, the reductions were considerably greater in the group combining exercise with GTE.
Enhanced Anti-inflammatory and Metabolic Effects
The combination of exercise and GTE also produced more significant changes in key markers of inflammation and metabolism. Levels of adiponectin, a hormone with anti-inflammatory properties, increased significantly in both exercise groups. However, the increase was more pronounced in the ET + GTE group. Conversely, levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), a marker of inflammation, decreased significantly in both exercise groups, with a greater reduction observed in the group combining exercise with GTE.
Limited Impact on Other Inflammatory Markers
The study did not find significant changes in other inflammatory markers like interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha across the three groups.
Promising Findings for Weight Management
These findings suggest that GTE may enhance the weight loss and anti-inflammatory benefits of exercise in overweight women. The study authors concluded that GTE supplementation, alongside a regular exercise program, could be a valuable strategy for promoting weight management and improving metabolic health.
Further Research Needed
While the study provides promising results, the researchers acknowledge the need for further investigation. Future studies with larger sample sizes and longer durations could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term effects of combining GTE and exercise for weight loss and overall health.